Beware of 'eco scammers' offering £10,000 home improvement vouchers in Milton Keynes

The government is currently offering eligible home owners up to £10,000 of vouchers to improve the energy efficiency of their property and give the economy a much needed boost.

You can see how to apply for the vouchers here.

But, say Trading Standards officers, greedy scammers are knocking on residents' doors offering to apply for the grant on their behalf and carry out the work cheaply for a profit. In fact, they're not registered to do this.

Only approved and checked traders who officially register with the government can carry out the work, and to get the grant residents need to apply directly through the government’s website.

Fred Wilson, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, has warned people to be extra vigilant.

"You may get people knocking on your door or offers through the post that they can get the deal on your behalf, but they can’t. I am urging everyone, not just to be aware and ask questions, but to report it to our team so we can rid our county of these fraudsters.”

You can apply for the scheme and see if you are eligible here.

All tradespersons who carry out the work must be registered on the TrustMark or Microgeneration Certification Scheme.

Trading Standards advises residents not to engage with cold callers either on the doorstep or on the phone. They should never be allowed access to your home unless you are able to verify their authenticity and who they are.

"As with all scams: Be sceptical, stay calm, and don’t be afraid to hang up, bin it, delete it or shut the door," said a spokesman.

To deter visits from cold callers, residents can display a no cold calling sticker by their front doors. You can obtain a Stop Cold Calling Sticker Pack via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.